So you have water damage in your home; sewage backed up, a burst pipe, or maybe even a leak from the roof. The question is – now what? This is where insurance claims come into play. Experiencing damage to your home can be overwhelming, so here are some simple steps to help you file your water damage claim.*

1. Take all necessary steps to stop water flow
Yes, this may seem like the first good logical step, but people often do not realize that insurance companies may deem it to be negligence on your part – such as just letting your toilet overflow for a couple days. If it is possible to stop further damage in your home (such as calling a plumber), make sure this is taken care of first. Keep all receipts and reports you may get.

2. Read your insurance policy
Many home owners are unaware that water damage due to flooding or seepage is not covered by home insurance. Check your policy to see if your situation is covered. If you are unsure of whether or not your water damage is covered, call your insurance agent. He/She will be more than happy to inform you about your coverage.

3. Document everything, keep receipts
You may ask – isn’t this what adjusters are for? Well yes, but doing your own due diligence can assist your claim. Document your losses / damages – this shows the state of your home and/or belongings right after the water damage, just in case repairs get started before your adjuster comes by. Taking pictures is an excellent way to cover all your bases.

4. Call your Insurance company and file a claim
Homeowners should all have documentation provided by the insurance company that includes your deductible amount and policy number. Knowing your deductible amount can help you determine whether going through your home insurance is the right thing to do. Once you have decided that you will be filing a claim, have your policy number handy. If you cannot find this information, insurance companies are typically very helpful in providing you with it. Having your policy number ready can save you hours on the phone.

5. Patience is a Virtue
Understand that the claim process is not something that will magically happen overnight. It may take your adjuster a couple days to assign a claim number (if your damage is covered). With this claim number you can now start hiring the appropriate companies to clean up and repair the damage. If you would like the contact information for your assigned adjuster – call your insurance company. They will provide your adjusters phone number, email address and first and last name. Restoration companies will require this information.